Examining Mu Opioid Mechanisms of Ketamine's Rapid Effects in OCD (MKET2)

Examining Mu Opioid Mechanisms of Ketamine's Rapid Effects in OCD (MKET2)

The purpose of this study is to understand how ketamine works in the brain to bring about a reduction in OCD symptoms.

The proposed mechanistic trial would be the first to probe the role of ketamine's opioid properties in modulating fronto-striatal circuitry and bringing about reduction of OCD symptoms.

Eligibility Criteria for Participants with OCD:

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18-65
• Meet the criteria for OCD diagnosis
• Failed at least 1 prior trial of standard first-line OCD treatment
• Agree to the following lifestyle modifications: comply with requirements for fasting prior to the Experimental Session, not enroll in any other interventional clinical trials during the duration of the study, and commit to medication study procedures.
• Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• prior naltrexone or ketamine use/exposure
• Any current or past medical/psychiatric condition that makes participation unsafe in the opinion of the investigator or study physician
• Pregnant or nursing, or able to become pregnant and are not practicing an effective means of birth control
• the presence of metal in the body that is contraindicated for MRI scans

Eligibility Criteria for Healthy Volunteers:

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18-65
• Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• current or past use of psychotropic medication
• pregnant or nursing females
• the presence of metal in the body that is contraindicated for MRI scans